AMERICAN Amanda Anisimova praised Filipina tennis star Alexandra Eala for her fighting spirit following their three-set battle in the third round of Cincinnati Open.
Anisimova, who rallied past the No. 17-seeded Eala, 4-6, 6-4, 6-2, in the third round, said she expected a difficult match against the 21-year-old Filipina.
“I know Alex is such a great player and such a fighter. I knew it was gonna be a really tough match,” Anisimova said in a post-game interview.
The American also recognized the strong support Eala received from the crowd during the match, noting the Filipina’s growing popularity among fans.
“I know how loved Alex is, and for good reason,” Anisimova said.
Anisimova admitted that the crowd’s energy also helped her during the physically demanding contest.
“I felt like I needed a pick-me-up in this match because it’s past my bedtime,” she said with a smile.
The victory sent Anisimova into the next round of the WTA 1000 tournament, while Eala’s Cincinnati campaign ended and will now shift her focus to US Open later this month. (Adrian Co)
